Inspire Malta

The Art of The Possible
2024-10-10 08:00 - 15:30 (Europe/Malta) | AX The Palace Hotel, Triq Il - Kbira, Tas-Sliema, SLM 1542, Malta
Accessibility refers to the opportunity for everyone to acquire the same information, enter the same building, take part in the same events, receive the same services, and engage in the same activities regardless of their physical, cognitive, or psychological challenges and abilities. Accessibility plays a pivotal role in ensuring equal opportunities for all members of our society specifically for individuals who suffer from disabilities or health issues.

Dr. Ruth Moyse

Dr Ruth Moyse is a Director & Associate at AT-Autism and a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Southampton. She is a qualified teacher and completed her doctoral studies at the Institute of Education, University of Reading, where her work was funded by the John and Lorna Wing Foundation. Her research interest lies in the education of autistic children and young people, particularly the female experience, and more widely in autistic wellbeing. Ruth is an advocate for participatory research and the co-production of knowledge and chooses creative methods of engagement that centre autistic people and their views. She is the autistic co-Lead on an innovative pilot autism Train the Trainer training programme for adult mental health inpatient settings in London and the Southeast. This joint venture between AT-Autism and Anna Freud Centre has been co-created and co-delivered with autistic and non-autistic colleagues, including experts by experience. In addition, Ruth is a guest lecturer/speaker on autism, inclusion, and wellbeing at a range of organisations in the UK and Europe, plus sits on a number of neurodiversity advisory boards and steering groups. She is also a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Southampton. Ruth has two children, one of whom is autistic and ADHD, and is autistic herself.
Prof. Richard Mills

Dr Richard Mills is the Head of Research and Clinical Support and Associate Consultant, AT-Autism, London. He is also a Research Fellow in the dept of Psychology, University of Bath, and visiting Professor at Taisho University, Tokyo, Japan: Senior Research Fellow and visiting Scholar, Bond University, Queensland, Australia. Dr Richard Mills holds other positions as a Consultant, Autism Resource Centre (ARC) Singapore; Advisor: Government of Jersey CI: and as Research Associate, Centre for Practice Innovation, Scottish Autism and Consultant to the National Centre for Neurodiversity, Scotland. He also has a long association and strong connection with Malta. In the early 1990’s he became an adviser to the Eden Foundation, and in more recent years the Inspire Foundation, where he chairs the Research and Innovation Council. He is an Editor of ‘Autism the International Journal of Research and Practice’ Sage, and ‘Advances in Autism’ Emerald. He is a member of the Westminster Autism Commission and a trustee the John and Lorna Wing Foundation. For twenty-five years Richard was with the National Autistic Society, London, UK, as Director of Services, and later Director of Research, a joint appointment with Research Autism, London. His current research and practice interests are in programme and service evaluation, autism and mental health, forensic issues, in particular cybercrime, and in behaviours of concern- the Synergy programme. He is a lead on the SPELL framework programme in conjunction with the Tizard Centre at the University of Kent. He has authored numerous scientific articles.
Dr. Josanne Ghirxi

Josanne started her career as a pharmacist and moved into education as a Science and Biology teacher where she taught in State secondary schools for several years. She has served as an Inclusion Co-ordinator in a number of secondary schools and later served as Assistant Director (Inclusive Education) within the Ministry for Education and Employment for six years until she was appointed Director of the National School Support Services in April 2020. She has been working in the field of inclusive education for many years, and has participated in a number of policies, projects and research in the field. Josanne has a Masters degree in Inclusive Education from the University of Malta and has recently obtained an Educational Doctorate from the University of Sheffield. Her area of interest is inclusive education, in particular gifted students. Josanne is also the Board Representative for Malta at the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education and serves on Inter-Ministerial Committees.
Dr. Rita Micallef
Dr Micallef is a senior lecturer with the University of Malta and lectures on various topics including: Disability Issues, Communication and Intellectual Impairment, Collaborative Practices, Language and Psychiatry, Challenging Behaviour and has also lectured at various European Universities on ASD. She is also nominated as an expert in the field of emotional intelligence and has lectured at various universities across Europe. She holds a Doctorate in Education: Area researched: Emotions as indicators of performance – Towards a redefinition of professionalism in the post-modern workplace. She is a Licensed Trainer with the National Autistic Society (NAS) and organizes both parent and professionals training programmes in autism at Inspire. Dr Micallef is also an appointed education consultant with the Foundation and a Trustee of the same Foundation. Dr Micallef is the Director Allied Health Services within the Ministry For Health and is responsible for the plan of services provided by 22 Allied Health Professions, in various different locations in Malta and Gozo. She has been nominated on the Positive Parenting Task Force, Chairperson of the Sector Skills Unit (Health and Social Care) MFHEA, and member on the Research and Ethics Board of the IFE. She is qualified in Training and Human Resource Management and in Clinical Speech and Language Studies. She is a Member on the Board of Studies and the Board of Examiners of the Communication Therapy Division – University of Malta.
Ms. Olivia Farrugia

Olivia Farrugia is the Head of the Jobseeker Services Division within Jobsplus, the Public Employment Service. Within the Public Employment Service, she had different roles including that of an employment advisor within the Inclusive Employment Unit, Training Coordinator, Human Resources and management roles. She managed the provision of specific and specialized services/incentives and several EU Funded projects that assisted job seekers as well as employers. In her current role she is responsible for the design and implementation of Active Labour Market Programmes targeting mainstream jobseekers, persons with disability and vulnerable individuals including those with socio-economic difficulties. She is part of the Board of Administrators of the Lino Spiteri Foundation, which public private partnership was set up to facilitate the entry in employment of persons with disability. She participated in working groups and fora during the development of national strategies including those related to disability and integration.
Mr Mattew Bonello

Matthew Bonello is pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, specialising in 3D Printing and Product User Experience Design. He graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and subsequently worked as a researcher at the University of Malta. His research focused on developing a smart wearable for paediatric habilitation, working alongside a multidisciplinary team, including engineers, occupational therapists and other academics.

Mr Oliver Scicluna

Mr. Oliver Scicluna, CEO of Aġenzija Sapport, holds degrees in informatics, youth studies, and public administration. He has extensive experience leading voluntary organizations, including the Disabled People Organization Breaking Limits, which spearheaded self-advocacy in Malta. Mr. Scicluna has served as Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disability. In this role, he actively encouraged more individuals with disabilities to join him in shaping policies and initiatives. A core tenet of his advocacy is not only advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities but also ensuring their active participation in leadership roles. Mr Scicluna also held positions on various Boards across different entities such as Transport Malta, Valletta18, National Commission for the Promotion of Equality, Jobs+, Malta Community Chest Fund, the Foundation for Information Technology Accessibility, and Public Broadcasting Services, with a steadfast commitment to advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. Additionally, Mr. Scicluna was co-opted into the Maltese Parliament, serving as an MP from 2021 to 2022, during which time he contributed to the advancement of several legislative initiatives. He has also presided over the Parliament International and European Affairs Committee. Over the years, Mr. Scicluna has played a pivotal role in the development of key policies and legislation concerning disability rights in Malta. This includes his involvement in crafting the first national policy for the rights of persons with disabilities, shaping the national strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities (2021-2030), amending the Equal Opportunities Act, enacting the Blue Badge legislation, passing the Maltese Sign Language Act, implementing the Autism (Empowerment) Act, establishing Access for All standards in the built environment, founding the Malta Business Disability Forum, and most recently, spearheading the Personal Budget and Personal Assistant reform.
Mr Joseph Seychell

Joseph Seychell joined the Malta Communications Authority (MCA) in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience in the Information Technology sector, having served clients both in Malta and across Europe. At the MCA, he oversees the digital services regulatory programme, which encompasses intermediary platforms, eCommerce, digital trust services, and website/mobile app accessibility. Joseph is currently spearheading the Authority’s digital services regulation initiatives that aim to balance regulation and awareness, adopting a forward-looking regulatory approach to digital services while ensuring stakeholders are informed of their rights and responsibilities. Additionally, he plays a key role in the Authority’s supervisory process for trust service providers and manages the web accessibility monitoring and enforcement efforts. Joseph holds multiple IT certifications from leading industry vendors, a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, and a Master’s degree in Business Management.
Ms Kiki Mizzi

My name is Kiki, a name that has been with me since childhood, that eventually became my identity. As a child, I was known for my caring empathic nature and my ability to connect with others, traits that hinted at the career path I would eventually pursue. For 15 years, I served as a Learning Support Assistant, dedicating myself to working with students who required additional assistance in their educational journeys. Driven by my desire to enhance my ability to support others, I eventually continued my studies, focusing on both Disability and Management. This further education allowed me to deepen my understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and equipped me with the skills to manage and lead more effectively within educational settings. This knowledge and experience led me to take on the role of Head of Inclusion at two prominent schools in Malta. In this role, I was responsible for developing and implementing inclusive educational strategies that ensured all students, regardless of their abilities, had access to quality education. Today, I am the Head of Education at Esplora, Malta’s Interactive Science Centre. In this role, I lead the development and delivery of informal educational programs that engage and inspire learners of all ages. My work at Esplora allows me to combine my passion for education with my commitment to making learning accessible and exciting for everyone.
Dr. Stefanie Turk

Dr. Stefanie Turk holds a PhD in linguistics from the Philipps-University Marburg in Germany where she also worked as a Research and Teaching Assistant. During her time in Marburg, she investigated speech and language processing in neurotypical and neurodiverse populations, such as individuals with depression, schizophrenia, dyslexia and intellectual disabilities. With a special interest in the processing of written language, she also investigated the usefulness of rules set forth by German organizations for inclusion to make written language more accessible and whether they truly lead to a better understanding of texts in persons with diverse disabilities. Dr. Turk also holds a master’s degree in psychology with a focus on clinical and neuropsychology from the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main (Germany). During her studies in psychology, she worked in research and practice with individuals suffering from different mental health issues as well as neurological, neurodevelopmental, and learning disorders including depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She moved to Malta in February 2024 and took on the role of Research Support Officer at Inspire Foundation in July of this year.
Ms Hope Brincat

Hope is 20 years old. She is a twin with her sister Yvonne, and she has an eldest brother, Craig. Hope likes watching Musicals and theater on the You Tube. She also enjoys watching local football games on her devices. Hope has achieved a MQF level 2 certificate in Hairdressing. She also has achieved an Award in Retail, both from MCAST. She attends the Malta School of Music (MAVC) for her violin lessons. A musical instrument that she is very fond of. She loves attending youth groups to meet up with her friends, she loves shopping and her very favorite food is Sushi. Additionally, she has recently won the Cupi Spoon Gastronomy Competition. Cupi’s Spoon, an initiative by UNUO, involves representatives traveling across various European countries with a van equipped for individuals with disabilities to prepare their dishes or cocktails. The van tours European countries throughout the year until winners from each country are selected. Hope will be competing in Croatia with the other winners in October.
Ms Sara Accettura

Born in Italy, where she started her dance career and achieved a Diploma for a Proficiency Course for dance teachers at I.D.A. (Ravenna) and a Master in choreography at European Dance Alliance (Rome), Sara graduated in 2007 with a First Class Degree in Dance Studies at the London Contemporary Dance School (University of Kent). Since then, she has danced for several companies in the UK, amongst them the National Dance Company of Wales, Cedar Dance Theatre (Wales), Diciembre Dance, Combination Dance (London), Leila Dance(London) and Maddogs Dance (Leeds), whilst teaching in several dance schools in London. In 2009 Sara achieved a Master of Arts in Performance at the London Contemporary Dance School, and started working as a freelance dancer for various international choreographers, amongst them Marc Brew, Leila McMillan, Janet Randell, Douglas Thorpe, Yoshua Cienfuegos, Dana Raz, Mavin Khoo, Lucia Piquero, Moritz Zavan, Oden Ronen, Francesca Tranter. Sara has recently passed her PhD viva in Dance and Autism at the University of Bedfordshire, and is expected to graduate at the end of this year while working as a freelance dancer, choreographer and educator. She is the artistic director of Junior Dance Company Bari and Malta and the summer school Dance Master Class, co-director of the inclusive dance project Dance For All (Italy), Assistant Lecturer for the School of Performing Arts Dance Studies Department and guest lecturer for the Department of Disability Studies at the University of Malta. Since 2021 Sara has joined Opening Doors Malta as a dance leader and she is also a Board member since 2023.
Ms Mary Ann Cauchi

Mary Ann Cauchi provides overall direction to the strategy and funding teams, setting the strategy and vision for Arts Council Malta and coordinating programmes and initiatives aimed at supporting the cultural and creative sectors. Mary Ann oversees the funding processes and the coordination of the various strategic areas, both within Arts Council Malta as well as for the Public Cultural Organisations. She is currently also EPALE Ambassador for Creativity and Culture 2022-2024. Throughout her career, Mary Ann Cauchi has occupied various positions in the cultural and creative sectors including Head of the National Malta School of Music and Founder-Director of Artsphere International, a company based in Malta with international networks. Prior to that, she also worked at the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts, on numerous large-scale artistic and cultural events and the initiation of arts funding support.
Noel Aquilina

Noel Aquilina, aged 46, I consider myself a dedicated sports leader and advocate for disability sports. President and Founder of the Malta Wheelchair Basketball Association, an organization committed to promoting inclusivity and empowering athletes with disabilities through the sport of wheelchair basketball. Academic background, a degree in Youth and Community Studies and a Master’s in Physical Education and Sports. A passion for community development and sports has driven me to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities, fostering an environment where they can thrive both athletically and socially. I strive to continue to make a significant impact in the sports community in Malta. I believe that together we can make a difference.

Professor Inġ. Kenneth P. Camilleri

Professor Inġ. K. Camilleri has been working on signal & image analysis and machine learning for over 30 years, with a special interest in their application to biomedical engineering. Professor Camilleri has a special interest in the development of human-computer interfacing methods that exploit physiological signals, such as eye movements, the electromyogram (EMG) and the electroencephalogram (EEG). In particular, Professor Camilleri has been working on brain-computer interfacing and camera-based eye-gaze tracking for several years, and more recently on eye-gaze tracking from the electrooculogram (EOG). Professor Camilleri has been awarded several research grants and he was, among others, the Principal Investigator on more than ten, and Co-Investigator on more than twenty, externally funded R&I projects amounting to close to 2.5M€, and three capital funding projects amounting to over 1.3M€ which were instrumental in setting up two laboratories for work related to biomedical engineering. Professor Camilleri has over 170 international peer-reviewed publications, he has mentored three postdoctoral researchers, successfully co/supervised nine doctoral candidates to completion, and he is currently co/supervising two doctoral candidates. Professor Camilleri has been invited to serve as a doctoral external examiner at various foreign universities, regularly reviews international conference and journal paper submissions, and assists the EU Commission and various European national research agencies in the evaluation of research proposals. Professor Camilleri is a founding member of the Department of Systems and Control Engineering, and of the Centre for Biomedical Cybernetics at the University of Malta. He is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers (IEEE, USA), the Society for Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineering (SPIE, USA), and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM, USA) and a Warranted Member of the local Chamber of Engineers, and a Member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET, UK).

Time
Speaker
Subject

8:00 am – 9:00 am
Inspire
Registration and Welcome Coffee

9:00 am – 09:15 am
Hon. Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli
Minister For Inclusion and The Voluntary Sector

9:15 am – 09:30 am
Hon. Graziella Galea
Shadow Minister For Inclusion and The Voluntary Sector

09:30 am – 09:45 am
Commissioner Rhoda Garland
Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disability

09:45 am – 09:55 am
Mr. Antonello Gauci
Inspire: A Vision for the Future

09:55 am – 10:05 pm
Mr. Joseph Borg
AX Foundation-Supporting the educational journey of children with invisible disabilities

10:10 am – 11:05 am
Ms Hope and Valerie Brincat, Ms. Olivia Farrugia, Dr. Josanne Ghirxi, Mr. Oliver Scicluna, Dr. Rita Micallef, Mr. Joseph Zammit
Panel One: Championing Inclusive Education and Employment

11:05 am – 11:35 am
Inspire
Coffee Break

11:40 am – 12:10 pm
Prof. Richard Mills
Confronting Our Biases

12:25 pm – 13:20 pm
Ms. Kiki Mizzi, Mr. Joseph Seychell, Dr. Joseph H. Spiteri, Mr. Noel Aquilina, Prof. Kenneth P. Camilleri, Ms. Mary Ann Cauchi
Panel Two: Accessible Design and Inclusive Digital Innovation

13:20 pm – 13:45 pm
Dr. Stefanie Turk
Accessible Language – A How-To

13:45 pm – 14:00 pm
Ms. Sara Accettura
Introducing Dance For All and the IDEAL Model

14:00 pm – 14:15 pm
Mr. Matthew Bonello, Ms. Sharon Borg
DigiClap – A User-Centred Device For Children With Cerebral Palsy

14:20 pm – 14:50 pm
Dr. Ruth Moyse
Accessibility – So What? Reflections on the day and key take home messages.

14:50 pm – 15:30
Inspire
Networking and Lunch

Download Conference Programme

The Inspire Halloween Fest!
2024-10-25 18:30 - 23:00 | STAR Hall, Inspire, Zinzell Street, Marsascala, Malta
Join us this October as we engage the community, raise awareness, and enhance the visibility of Inspire’s mission by creating a fun filled evening with live music and entertainment. Everybody is welcome!
Special guests: Martina Borg, Kapitlu Tlettax and Happydays Dance Studio will be performing throughout the evening to make the event even more memorable.
Tickets will include entrance to the event, food, one (1) drink token, and activities for children. Access to the bouncy castle and face painting will be at a €5 donation.
So make sure to come in your scariest costume and join in the fun!
Martina Borg

Martina is an 18-year-old singer-songwriter and musician. She started playing piano at the age of 7, and from there taught herself to play guitar, ukulele, cajon and very recently little bit of violin. From an early age Martina engaged in musical theatre, performing and being on stage through telling stories through her music. One of Martina’s biggest moves to date was participating in XFactor Malta Season 4 as part of the duo Kelsie and Martina where they made it to the second live show. Martina has also been a backing vocalist for the renowned maltese artist Aidan during the opening for Gigi d’Alessio’s concert in Malta, AIDAN The Show and Beerfest 2024. Last June, Martina was also chosen to be part of the Malta Eurovision Song Contest songwriting camp where she worked with international producer Tom Oehler and composer Andreas Stone and local singer-songwriter Christina Magrin to create a song. This year Martina will be taking part in “Mumenti” as part of the musical theatre cast and has more projects in the pipeline for the end of this year and the upcoming year.
Kapitlu Tlettax

Kapitlu Tlettax is a Hip Hop duo formed by Joseph and Edward. They knew each other way back in 2013 on the school benches. In the summer of 2015 when they were drinking a glass of wine near the fresh sea, Joseph and Edward were speaking about certain ideas and views so they decided to share their talents with the Maltese public and form Kapitlu Tlettax. This duo is interested in creating a style of hip hop which is a little rebellious and slightly satirical, whilst having a sentimental element. Kabitlu Tlettax have made it to the finals in the L-Għanja tal-Poplu – Festival tal-Kanzuntta Maltija three times in the past few years. In 2016 they entered with their song ‘Tama’ featuring Shyli Cassar; in 2017 with the song ‘Antifona ta’ Mħabba’ with Ina Robinich and Dominic Cini; and lastly in 2023 with ‘Kreattivita tal-Pastizzi’. Lastly in 2022 they were finalists in Muzika Muzika with Danica Muscat and semi-finalists in 2023 Muzika Muzika with Julie Pomorski.
Happydays Dance Studio

The Happydays Dance Studio is located in Marsakala. At the Happydays Dance Studio one can find four qualified dance teachers that are ready to teach different genres of dance including latin, ballroom, freestyle (modern), argentine tango & many more. The studio has a large parquet floor and mirrored walls. Students are given the opportunity to sit for yearly graded medal tests with the British Association Of Teachers Of Dancing, to perform during shows and to also compete in local and overseas competitions. Happydays Dance Studio has also been invited to perform in many prestigious shows such as the August Moon Ball and Notte Bianca. The dance studio also collaborates with an Italian dance school so that the students are provided with varied learning opportunities and experiences. The welcoming atmosphere and the individual attention given to the students are what the Happydays Dance Studio are famous for.

Mr. Alfred –The Balancing Magician
Mr. ALFRED MIFSUD is known as the Balancing Magician from the beautiful Island of Malta, since he combines balancing and magic in a singularly varied show. His skill in equlibrism is unique as he is able to balance with ease small objects such as fifty euro note and large ones such as a bicycle. Alfred was the first Maltese to take part in Demar Circus. Alfred joined two other circuses, the first one in Pomezia and the second in Florence in Italy. He presented his magic to about 60 different schools in England, Naples, Spain, Berlin, Manchester, Harrogate, Malta , Scotland and in Portugal. He took part in the first edition of Malta’s Got Talent receiving four yesses from the judges. During the Covid-19 he took part in online magic shows with the Magicians at The Moat. Mr. Alfred gave a lecture to the magicians members of the Magic Room. He also gave a lecture to his local magicians about his balancing.

Stardust Gala
2024-10-26 19:30 - 23:00 | InterContinental Malta, St Julian's, STJ3310, Malta
For its inaugural event, the Eden Leisure Foundation is hosting a special evening, filled with divine food, excellent wine, music, entertainment and more.
All proceeds of this event will go to Inspire’s new ‘Pathfinder’ Project.
Tickets:
Individuals – €100
Corporate Tables – €1500 (10 pax)
Discover more about this lovely event here.
ELG STARDUST GALA – Auction Sheet
Inquire Booking

SPONSORS

Kayak for Charity: In Aid of Inspire Malta
2025-06-25 08:00 - 17:00
From Gela to Malta in the Footsteps of World War II Heroes
In 1943, Malta played a pivotal role in the success of Operation Husky – the Allied invasion of Sicily. As part of this operation, COPP (Combined Operations Pilotage Parties) commandos were deployed from submarines to carry out secret reconnaissance missions on enemy shores, gathering critical geographical information to ensure the mission’s success.
One of the most remarkable stories of bravery during this time involved Lt. Brand and Lt. Smith. After their reconnaissance mission in Gela, Sicily, they found themselves stranded on enemy territory. With no way of returning by land, they paddled a staggering 120 km for 37 hours through treacherous, stormy seas to make their way back to Malta – a feat of determination and courage.
This year, we are commemorating their bravery with the Kayak for Charity event. Led by Dorian Surname and Albert Surname, this challenging kayak journey retraces their historic path, crossing the same perilous seas, in honor of these unsung heroes.
But it’s not just about remembering the past – it’s about making a positive impact in the present. The event aims to raise vital funds to support Inspire Malta, an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and special needs.
By joining us, you can show your support for both the courageous heroes of World War II and the ongoing work of Inspire Malta. Every donation, every mile, and every moment spent paddling in support will help make a difference.
Join us in this historic tribute and help us honor the legacy of Lt. Brand and Lt. Smith while supporting a great cause. Together, we can make waves of change!

Smart Tools for Strong Lives Conference
2026-04-24 08:00 - 15:15 | The Notch Conference Centre, Urban Valley Resort, San Gwann, The Notch Conference Centre, Urban Valley Resort, San Gwann, San Gwann, Malta
Artificial intelligence and innovative technologies are rapidly taking over every aspect of our lives. But can these inventions be a chance to increase inclusion and offer equal opportunities for persons with disabilities?
In this conference, we bring together users, professionals, researchers, and developers of assistive tools that are designed to help persons with disabilities. We want to discuss the future of assistive tools, how they can help people with disabilities lead more independent lives, and what problems and risks might be associated with them.

Jay Giddens
Jay Giddens has over 30 years of experience in sales and has spent the past 18 years working in education technology, supporting schools, colleges, and universities with accessibility solutions. At ReadSpeaker, he has helped make text-to-speech technology more widely available to students who need support with reading.
Growing up with dyslexia in the 1970s and 80s, Jay Giddens experienced firsthand the challenges of being taught through traditional linear learning methods that did not work for everyone. This experience has shaped his passion for raising awareness of neurodiversity and promoting alternative ways of learning that allow more people to thrive. Through his speaking and podcast Thick No More, Jay Giddens shares his personal journey and advocates for better understanding and support for those who learn differently.

Horacio Saggion

Horacio Saggion is chair in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at the Department of Information & Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain. He was appointed by UPF in 2010 as a Ramón y Cajal research fellow from the Spanish Ministry of Science and he was promoted to full professor in 2021. Horacio is director of the TALN Natural Language Processing Group where he works in several areas of Natural Language Processing (NLP) automatic text summarization, text simplification, NLP for Sign Languages, information extraction, figurative language, sentiment analysis and related topics. His work combines symbolic and statistical techniques. Since his arrival he has obtained funding to carry out his research from different national and international organizations Ministerio de Industria, Turismo y Comercio (Proyecto Simplext 2010-2013), Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad, and the European Commission (FP7, CIP, H2020, Horizon Europe). He also collaborates with the industry through contracts, projects and Doctoral PhDs. Horacio is the project coordinator of the Horizon Europe funded project iDEM – Innovative and Inclusive Democratic Spaces for Deliberation and Participation – and principal co-investigator in the AI-BOOST project and principal investigator of IDEAL inclusive Democratic Engagement and Language Technologies in Europe.

Prof. Richard Mills
Dr Richard Mills is the Head of Research and Clinical Support and Associate Consultant, AT-Autism, London. He is also a Research Fellow in the dept of Psychology, University of Bath, and visiting Professor at Taisho University, Tokyo, Japan: Senior Research Fellow and visiting Scholar, Bond University, Queensland, Australia. Dr Richard Mills holds other positions as a Consultant, Autism Resource Centre (ARC) Singapore; Advisor: Government of Jersey CI: and as Research Associate, Centre for Practice Innovation, Scottish Autism and Consultant to the National Centre for Neurodiversity, Scotland. He also has a long association and strong connection with Malta. In the early 1990’s he became an adviser to the Eden Foundation, and in more recent years the Inspire Foundation, where he chairs the Research and Innovation Council. He is an Editor of ‘Autism the International Journal of Research and Practice’ Sage, and ‘Advances in Autism’ Emerald. He is a member of the Westminster Autism Commission and a trustee the John and Lorna Wing Foundation. For twenty-five years Richard was with the National Autistic Society, London, UK, as Director of Services, and later Director of Research, a joint appointment with Research Autism, London. His current research and practice interests are in programme and service evaluation, autism and mental health, forensic issues, in particular cybercrime, and in behaviours of concern- the Synergy programme. He is a lead on the SPELL framework programme in conjunction with the Tizard Centre at the University of Kent. He has authored numerous scientific articles.

Bryom
Bryom is an AI-powered productivity and wellbeing platform designed especially for neurodivergent individuals, including people with autism and ADHD. The platform helps users manage daily life, tasks, and emotional wellbeing through an adaptive AI assistant, gamified systems, and personalized tools. Bryom’s goal is to make everyday life more manageable and empowering by turning structure, support, and self-development into an engaging and accessible experience.

Alexander Snellman – Co-Founder
Alexander Snellman is a co-founder of Bryom and founder of Artificial Innovations Oy. He focuses on product vision, AI-driven innovation, and building technology that improves everyday life for neurodivergent individuals. Alexander is passionate about combining artificial intelligence, design, and psychology to create tools that help people manage tasks, reduce overwhelm, and unlock their potential.
Henrik Snellman – Co-Founder
Henrik Snellman is a co-founder of Bryom and works on strategic development and operations. He plays a key role in shaping the platform’s growth, partnerships, and long-term vision. Henrik focuses on building systems and partnerships that allow Bryom to scale internationally while staying aligned with its mission of supporting neurodivergent communities.
Jani Sundqvist – Co-Founder
Jani Sundqvist is a co-founder of Bryom and contributes to the technical development and architecture of the platform. He works on building the systems that power Bryom’s AI features and user experience. Jani is passionate about developing technology that provides practical support and meaningful improvements in everyday life.

Dr Bryan Boyle, “From Prompting to Participation: Designing LLM-Based/AI Powered Assistive Apps for Children Living with Chronic Conditions”

Dr. Bryan Boyle is a Lecturer and Program Director at the School of Clinical Therapies at University College Cork. A CORU-registered occupational therapist, his work sits at the intersection of assistive technology, technology design, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on enhancing participation and inclusion for people with disabilities. Dr. Boyle has a multidisciplinary background in occupational therapy and computer science, and his research emphasises user-centred and participatory design approaches. He has particular expertise in the development and evaluation of assistive technologies for children and young people, including those with neurodevelopmental conditions. Drawing upon a background in Assistive Technology service delivery both in Ireland and at the Mada Qatar Assistive Technology Centre, his work explores the application of emerging technologies such as virtual reality, smart devices, and AI-enabled systems to support communication, learning, and independence. Dr. Boyle contributes to advancing inclusive and accessible technology design across health and educational contexts.

Ms Milagros Costabel

Milagros Costabel is a freelance journalist, speaker, and accessibility advocate. A recent graduate of Harvard University, where she studied government with a focus on AI, human cognition, and the ethical dilemmas emerging technologies pose, she is a Youth Advisory Board member for UN-Habitat and has written about assistive technology for the BBC, Business Insider, and Slate. Milagros is currently on a mission to visit 30+ countries with her guide dog, Indio — exploring how AI and assistive technology are reshaping mobility, independence, and travel for blind people, for better and for worse.

Dr Louis John Camilleri

I am an Educational Psychologist, researcher, and lecturer at the University of Malta, where I coordinate the Masters in Access to Education – Inclusive Schools and Communities program and contribute to various educational courses. I hold a PhD in Psychology from the University of Bath, where I focused on engaging with the autism community and supporting autistic children and adults through digitally-mediated interventions. I also hold a Professional Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology from the University of East London. With experience as both a Lecturer and an Educational Psychologist, my work focuses on inclusive education and supporting neurodivergent learners. I am a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society, registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (UK), and a Warranted Psychologist in Malta. My teaching and research are dedicated to advancing inclusive practices, fostering equitable learning environments, and enhancing development opportunities for all learners.

Time

Agenda

08:00 – 09:00
Welcome coffee and registration

09:00 – 09:30
Welcome addresses

09:30 – 10:00
Opening speech,
Prof. Dr. Richard Mills, AT-Autism London

Inclusion in Your Pocket: Apps for Accessibility and Independence

10:00 – 10:20
iDEM app – breaking linguistic barriers for an inclusive democracy – presentation
Prof. Dr. Horacio Saggion, Universitat Pompeu Fabra

10:20 – 10:30
iDEM app – breaking linguistic barriers for an inclusive democracy – trial and discussion
Prof. Dr. Horacio Saggion, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Spain

10:30 – 10:50
Bryom planner app for neurodivergent minds – presentation
Mr Alexander Snellman, Mr Henrik Snellman, Mr Jani Sundqvist, Bryom, Finland

10:50 – 11:00
Bryom planner app for neurodivergent minds – trial and discussion
Mr Alexander Snellman, Mr Henrik Snellman, Mr Jani Sundqvist, Bryom, Finland

11:00 – 11:15
Movement and discussion break

11:15 – 11:35
Stories Online For Autism (SOFA)
App – presentation
Dr. Louis John Camilleri, Faculty of Education, University of Malta

11:35 – 11:45
Stories Online For Autism (SOFA)
App – trial and discussion
Dr. Louis John Camilleri, Faculty of Education, University of Malta

Assistive Technology in Action: Stories from Users

11:45 – 12:15
Panel discussion involving persons with lived experience
Chair: Dr Vickie Gauci, Disability Studies, University of Malta

12:15 – 13:00
Lunch break

Afternoon workshops on assistive technologies

13:00 – 13:20
Assistive technologies for blind persons
Ms Milagros Costabel, freelancer and blind advocate, Uruguay

13:20 – 13:30
Assistive technologies for blind persons –
Q & A
Ms Milagros Costabel, freelancer and blind advocate, Uruguay

13:30 – 13:50
From Prompting to Participation: Designing LLM-Based/AI Powered Assistive Apps for Children Living with Chronic Conditions
Dr Bryan Boyle, University College Cork, Ireland

13:50 – 14:00
From Prompting to Participation: Designing LLM-Based/AI Powered Assistive Apps for Children Living with Chronic Conditions –
Q & A
Dr Bryan Boyle, University College Cork, Ireland

14:00 – 14:20
AI, Accessibility and the Human Story: Making Inclusion Real
Mr Jay Giddens, ReadSpeaker

14:20 – 14:30
AI, Accessibility and the Human Story: Making Inclusion Real – Q & A
Mr Jay Giddens, ReadSpeaker

14:30 – 14:45
Closing remarks

14:45 – 15:15
Coffee, discussions and social networking

Rooftop - In Aid of Inspire
2026-07-25 19:00 - 23:00
A Night of Great Company, Stunning Views and Meaningful Impact
What if your next night out could do more than just entertain you?
Join us on Saturday, 25 July 2026, for an unforgettable evening at Saboroso Rooftop, DB San Antonio Hotel, where great food, drinks, music and entertainment come together to support a cause that changes lives.
Starting from 7:00 PM, guests will enjoy:

🍽 Full buffet dinner
🍸 Open bar with unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks
🎶 Live music and DJ entertainment
🎉 A lively and interactive Boozy Bingo experience
🌇 Spectacular rooftop sunset views

More Than Just a Party
The Sunset Rooftop Party is a fundraising event in aid of Inspire.
Every ticket purchased helps support the essential services and programmes that empower children, adults and families to live fuller, more independent lives.
By joining us, you’re not simply attending a social event — you’re helping create opportunities, provide support, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those who rely on Inspire’s services.
Your Ticket Creates Impact
For a €50 donation per person, you’ll enjoy a premium rooftop experience while helping to:

Fund vital programmes and services
Support individuals and families in need
Create opportunities for greater independence and inclusion

Every ticket purchased creates real, tangible impact.
Whether you’re joining friends, colleagues or simply looking for a unique evening out, this is your chance to enjoy a fantastic night while supporting a meaningful cause.
Its a family friendly event where all age groups are welcome. People under 18 can participate with their parents/caregivers.
The buffet will include the menu below, plus unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Important Information
Please note that a separate spirits bar will be available throughout the evening at an additional cost and is not included in the ticket price.
Reserve Your Place
Places are limited and demand is expected to be high.
Secure your ticket today and join us for a night to remember — for all the right reasons.
🎟 Ticket Prices: Adults: €50 per person, Children (under 12): €25 per person.

FAMILY CONNECT DAY
2026-09-07 08:30 - 16:00 | The Notch Conference Centre, Urban Valley Resort, San Gwann, The Notch Conference Centre, Urban Valley Resort, San Gwann, San Gwann, Malta
Family Connect Day is a one-day event designed to empower, educate and connect families of disabled children bringing together parents, grandparents and siblings. The event offers a range of interactive workshops focused on practical strategies, emotional wellbeing, family relationships and future planning.
Participants will have the opportunity to choose three workshops tailored to their interests, while siblings will enjoy dedicated sessions that help them better understand disability, express their emotions and connect with peers who share similar experiences. Alongside the workshops, families will have the opportunity to engage with professionals at Inspire, and participate in family-friendly activities in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The aim of Family Connect Day is to strengthen family resilience, reduce isolation, foster meaningful connections and provide families with the knowledge, skills and support they need to navigate their journey with confidence and hope.
DATE: 07.09.2026
TIME: 8:30-16:00
VENUE: THE NOTCH CONFERENCE CENTRE- URBAN VALLEY RESORT & SPA, SAN GWANN
Please note that the event will be held in English because some of the facilitators have limited knowledge of Maltese.
Please fill in a separate form for each person who would like to attend. If you would like to attend with your child, please fill in one form for you and a separate form for your child!
Please note that siblings who would like to attend this event must be between the ages of 8-16 years.
Once we reach full capacity the application will be closed.
When you submit registration form, it will not automatically collect your details like name and email address unless you provide it yourself.
Registration: FAMILY CONNECT DAY
